More than half of parents now use them, but experts have raised concerns about the safety of carrying babies in slings.

Babies can suffocate within two minutes if the sling is pushed against their face or if they are carried in a curled position that is popular with many mothers, parents have been warned.

The deaths of at least 13 babies in the past two decades, including three in the past year, are being investigated by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

Twelve deaths involved babies younger than 4 months. Many were either premature or suffering breathing problems such as a cold.

The Government is “keeping the position under review” before deciding if British parents should be advised about the risks.

An official warning that very young babies who cannot control their heads risk being suffocated because the sling’s fabric can block their nose and mouth has been issued in America. Slings that keep the baby in a curled position, bending the chin towards the chest, can also restrict its ability to breathe.

“The baby will not be able to cry for help and can slowly suffocate,” the CPSC warned. “Make sure the infant’s face is not covered and is visible at all times to the sling’s wearer.”

It has produced a graphic showing the safe and dangerous methods of using a sling. Parents of low-weight babies, twins and those in fragile health have been advised to take extra care and seek advice from their paediatrician. … Continue reading